I've always marveled at how easily Spain was able to conquer these islands. Parang the Spaniards said, "We claim you in the name of the King" tapos natives said, "Sure, watevs."

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My history prof friend said it took Spaniards decades to subjugate these islands. The Spaniards who came here after Magellan probably learned the lesson from the survivors. If there was already a central authority by then, it would probably take them less than a year.

Masyado tayong mabait. It slowly evolved from friendship to subjugation.

Plus, before they came each island/baranggay is a different territory, oftentimes hostile against each other

Muslim Mindanao, may central government na noong time pa na yun, kaya wary sa kanila Spain